Ex rebels, NPA supporters gather for Peace Rally in Bayog

Former New People’s Army (NPA) rebels and supporters assembled in the Peace Rally organized by the Municipality of Bayog under the leadership of Mayor Leonardo L. Babasa, Jr. on November 9, 2018 in front of the Bayog Transport Terminal at the Bayog Market Site.

The said rally served as an avenue for the former NPA rebels to surrender and show support to help the government achieve peace and development.

Richard S. Labadia, the municipal local government officer of DILG, urged the surrenderees to be sincere in giving all out support of the government to attain progress.

During the activity, there was the conduct of Oath of Allegiance of former rebels and the Manifesto signing of the people of Bayog which clearly expressed individual obligations as Filipino citizens to defend the Philippine Constitution by all means.

Two of the former NPA rebels shared their real life experiences under the communist group, and realized that the ideals and fragmented traditions of the said organization hamper the country’s growth.

Meanwhile, LTC Jonathan P. Obena, Philippine Army’s 44th Infantry (44IB) Commander thanked the rebels for turning over their loose firearms and joining the government. “Salamat sa mga bumaba na at nagbabagong buhay. Susuportahan natin ang ating Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte para tayo ay mabuhay nang tahimik sa pamamagitan ng pag-suppress natin sa komunismo”

The burning of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) flag concluded the program. - Bernadine A. Gabawan, Municipal Information Officer